Judges and Politics: Why Criticizing the Court Can Be Dangerous

Chief Justice John Roberts recently addressed the issue of political figures criticizing judges. He emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary and cautioned against politicians expressing hostility towards judges. Roberts made these remarks at a conference of judges in Charlotte, North Carolina. Roberts did not directly address the recent high-profile decisions made by the Supreme Court. These decisions included a ruling that limited the power of courts to act as a check on the president. Instead, he focused on the broader issue of political figures criticizing judges. In the past, Roberts has spoken out against political figures who have targeted judges. He has even pushed back on White House talking points that have threatened to impeach judges who ruled against the president. However, recently, the Supreme Court has given the president more reasons to celebrate than complain. One of the most significant examples of this was a recent ruling that backed the president in his fight against nationwide court orders. These orders have paused many of his controversial executive orders. Democrats and left-leaning groups criticized this ruling, arguing that it weakened the ability of courts to stop a president's policy, even if it violates the law. Roberts acknowledged that the court had dealt with six major cases on its final day, which is more than usual. In addition to the ruling on nationwide injunctions, the court also sided with religious parents who want to opt their children out of reading LGBTQ books in schools. It also upheld a Texas law that requires age verification for pornographic websites. Roberts acknowledged that criticism of the court's opinions is to be expected. However, he also noted that such criticism often stems from a party's disappointment in losing a case. He suggested that criticism based on disappointment is not particularly helpful.